QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator WONG (South Australia—Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:15): What we would say to farmers is: we absolutely understand the importance of ensuring sufficient supply not only of fuel but of fertiliser. We understand it is not only critical for your businesses but critical for the national economy and for Australians everywhere.

That is why the new Export Finance Australia underwriting powers which I have referenced, which were announced on Saturday— Senator McKenzie: It's for the big four oil companies. Senator WONG: Well, that just shows your lack of understanding, Senator McKenzie. Really!

The PRESIDENT: Senator McKenzie, come to order! Senator WONG: It's precisely because of the consequences such as those to which you refer, Senator McGrath. The EFA underwriting powers are designed to de-risk additional untrialled, contracted shipments of key products directed at regions and industries suffering shortages, and we are very conscious of the importance of fertiliser— (Time expired) The PRESIDENT: Senator McGrath, second supplementary?